Pennsylvania Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding encouraged young residents to apply for an Agriculture Equipment Service Technician Apprenticeship through which they can earn a paycheck while learning hands-on skills in science, technology, engineering and math.

Pennsylvania will face more than 1,000 job openings in the field by 2030, as current farm equipment mechanics and service technicians retire.

The apprenticeship provides 4,000 hours of training to repair and maintain diesel machines, hydraulic systems and electrical and system controls along with global positioning, information systems and other emerging technologies.

Applications are accepted all year and there are no prerequisites for eligibility. The program is sponsored by the Northeast Equipment Dealers’ Association. Applications are available on its website.